Volunteers Share Their Library Love Stories – And Their Time

By Jessica L.

The best part of my job is hearing what people love about the library! As the Volunteer Coordinator at the Cedar Rapids Public Library, I have interviewed over 200 volunteers in the past two years. One question I always ask is “What attracted you to volunteering at the library?” I love to hear the diverse answers our volunteers give. They want to give back to their community. They want to connect with others. They love the library and want to support its success. They love books. They remember coming to this library as a child. They love coming here with their kids. And on, and on, and on…

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Fiction, Schmiction. How About Some Reality?

Thorndike large print memoirs and biographies

Some readers crave fiction. But a growing number of readers are hungry for nonfiction. In fact, a recent analysis of circulation data from libraries around the country revealed phenomenal growth of circulating nonfiction over the last 20 years. Why? Well, here are two possible reasons: 

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The History of Transcontinental Travel Part 2: Wheels and Wings

Chilton DIY

By Ryan Price

In October of 1893, General Roy Stone, a Civil War hero and roads advocate, was appointed to be in charge of the new Office of Road Inquiry (ORI) within the Department of Agriculture. With a budget of $10,000, ORI promoted new rural road development to serve the wagons, coaches, and bicycles on America’s dirt roads.

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Friends and the Library

By Ambar A.  My first impression of an actual library outside of school was when I was 12. My best friend sparked an interest in books with me when she gave me one about dogs as a birthday gift. She convinced me to start “hanging out” at the library instead of the mall by telling me … Read more

Libraries Are a Big Part of My Life

By Chris J. 

My first experience with a library was the bookmobile that would come around in the summer when I was a child in Cincinnati, Ohio. Seeing it come down the street was more exciting than the ice cream truck! We would be so excited to pick out a few books to read until the bookmobile would return! The librarian was always helpful in suggesting something she thought we would like too.

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The Relevance of Libraries is Ever Increasing

By Catherine M. 

I, among some other thousands of library visitors of all ages, benefit by enjoying traditional books, e-books, computer classes, DVDs and CDs. Visitors research, read, share, learn, attend quality programs and use information for lifelong learning and leisure pursuits.

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